The health apps challenge is the second staging of the competition, won last year by Alicia Cook and Nasser Dhim for their idea to develop an app using the principles of gamification for improving sexual health education for young women.

This year, the challenge is open to anyone from the industry, not just students. Participants can enter an app that addresses any healthcare topic, although HISA is encouraging entrants to consider focusing on one of the four HIC 2013 themes of mental health, oncology, indigenous health and chronic disease management.

Entrants do not have to design a full app but instead make a video pitch explaining the concept.

Entries are open now and close on June 3. The winner will be announced at HIC 2013 on July 17.

HISA has also launched a scholarship named in honour of Joan Edgecumbe, a founding member of HISA who served the society in various roles for over 20 years. The Joan Edgecumbe Continued Professional Development Scholarship will provide a student with full entry to HIC, along with its networking reception and gala dinner.

The scholarship is aimed at undergraduate, graduate certificate, diploma, masters and PhD students who demonstrate commitment and promise in the field of health informatics.

Applications close on May 31, with the winner notified on June 18. Apply online at the HISA website.